Interested in Getting Started Listening to Celtic Music

Hi Marc, my name is Colin. I'm 18 and I live in New Jersey. Lately, I have become more interested in my Irish roots, specifically Irish traditional music. Unfortunately, I know almost nothing about the genre; I'm sure there are many different types of Celtic music. I was wondering if you could suggest some artists, cds or specific songs to help me break into the scene and get a feel for Irish music. The music I listen to is generally rock music--classic rock, modern rock, alternative, metal and especially punk music. So I am really looking for some energetic, upbeat instrumental stuff. I was specifically inspired to pursue this by music from the film "Waking Ned Divine," which I saw recently. I understand that you are probably very busy, so any recommendations you could give me would be very much appreciated. Thanks a lot!

Hey Colin,
Glad to hear your interest in Irish traditional music. There is a plethora of great music out there, so a lot depends on your preference. If you haven't been there yet, head over to my Celtic Music Magazine and subscribe to my newsletter. Every week I feature a couple of great independent Celtic artists. Good way to find out what's new and what you like.

Now in traditional Irish music there are basically two main types of music songs and tunes. Tunes are the instrumental reels and jigs that often kick. Songs are the folk songs of the Celtic nations.

In the song category:

My band, the Brobdingnagian Bards, have a CD called "Songs of Ireland" that is a great introduction to traditional Irish as well as Irish American songs. It's a great primer and actually goes over well with a lot of folks with your musical background. Our style is more fun Irish Drinking Songs style. The type you'd hear on St. Patrick's Day.

3 Pints Gone is a brilliant group out of Wisconsin who play traditional Irish and Scottish songs with a little bit of a kick.

Sarah Dinan has a great CD with traditional Irish songs and a more contemporary style.

For the tune category, I'd suggest

Cluan, they have some fantastic fiddle playing as well as some beautiful songs.

Cady Finlayson is a brilliant fiddler from New York. She's very active and a great intro to trad fiddle music.

Heidi, Stef, and Bow Triplets are an amazing traditional Irish band from Switzerland. They were hugely popular on MP3.com a few years back.


Course as I said, I prefer mostly independent Celtic music, but if you're looking for some signed acts check out some of my Celtic music reviews. There, you'll find groups like The Chieftains, The Dubliners, The Clancy Brothers, Altan (a great trad Irish band), Silly Wizard, Lunasa, Planxty, Solas.

For the best traditional music, you might talk to Michelle Osborne, she does my trad music reviews of Irish traditional music. She's an encyclopedia of trad music.


Now on the other side, there are alternate styles of Celtic music that fuse other influences. For instance, Celtic Rock. Bands like Black 47, Emerald Rose, Enter the Haggis, The Elders, Amadan, Tears for Beers. You can listen to a number of these bands on one of my compilation CDs designed to introduce people to Celtic music. Both are well-worth the small price tag: The Secret World of Celtic Rock and Coventina's Well

Any case, I hope that helps a wee bit at getting you started. Best o'luck. Slainte! (that's Irish meaning "Here's to your health! or Cheers!)